Hamnavoe’s return delayed until Thursday
SCRABSTER ferry the Hamnavoe is now likely to return to service on Thursday – two days later than expected.
Operator Serco NorthLink said the vessel docked at Stromness, Orkney, today following repairs in Rosyth.
But further engine checks have shown the vibration damper has been damaged.
Stuart Garrett, Serco managing director, said: "The MV Hamnavoe returned to Stromness late this morning following completion of the repairs to the starboard engine in Rosyth. Engine checks on arrival revealed damage to the vibration damper.
"Further investigation is currently under way and we will continue to update customers and the community with progress. Our current estimate is that the Hamnavoe will return to service on the morning of Thursday.
"The Pentland Firth service will continue to be operated by our freight vessel MV Helliar, with limited passenger accommodation. Passengers are advised to look at our Kirkwall to Aberdeen route as a possible alternative and we continue to work with both Pentland and John O’Groat Ferries to provide alternative travel arrangements for our passengers and our courtesy bus remains in place.
"We would like to apologise to our customers for this ongoing inconvenience."
On Friday Serco reported the Hamnavoe would resume its timetabled Pentland Firth crossings on Tuesday subject to successful trials.
As previously reported, Mr Garrett had hoped the ferry would be back in action for the Orkney Folk Festival which kicks off on Thursday.
The Hamnavoe has been out of service since April 25 as a result of a damaged crankshaft.